UN 0499 — Propellant, solid
Placard: Explosive 1.3C. ERG Guide 112. Training/quick-reference only — use current ERG + SOP/SOG for incident-specific actions.
UN 0499 is Propellant, solid, a Class 1.3 propellant or ammunition-related entry assigned to ERG Guide 112. It is a fire and deflagration hazard where radiant heat, smoke and fragment projection are the main responder concerns.
Hazard overview: UN 0499 propellant-related material may burn rapidly and intensely, producing heat, smoke, pressure effects and fragments from packaging or casings. It is not normally a mass explosion hazard for this division, but fire involving larger quantities can escalate quickly.
Response guidance: For a UN 0499 incident, responders should identify the exact charge, cartridge or ammunition type using shipping papers, markings and ERG Guide 112. Isolate the area, stay out of smoke, protect exposures remotely and avoid close-range attack on burning propellant.
Firefighter training notes: Training should emphasize pyrotechnic, propellant or explosive fire behavior, smoke hazards, fragment potential and the risk of escalating nearby explosive articles. Common errors include approaching through smoke, disturbing damaged packages and failing to expand isolation when fire spreads.
Regulatory context: Propellant, solid is regulated as a Class 1 explosive hazardous material. Transportation, storage, quantity limits, fire code controls and reporting requirements may vary by jurisdiction. Responders should verify current requirements through shipping papers, SDS or product documents and applicable DOT, ATF, OSHA, NFPA, military, state or local authority guidance.
Storage & handling: Propellant, solid should be stored only in approved packaging, magazines or authorized explosive storage areas, separated from ignition sources, incompatible materials and unauthorized access. Packages should be protected from heat, impact, friction, moisture where relevant and physical damage according to product documentation and applicable explosive storage regulations.
UN 0499 Quick Details
Common Hazards of UN 0499
- Fire and deflagration hazard; propellant may burn rapidly and intensely.
- Burning charges or cartridges may project casing fragments, hot material or debris.
- Not normally a mass explosion hazard when transported as classified, but large quantities can create severe heat exposure.
- Smoke may contain irritating or toxic combustion products.
- Fire may ignite adjacent ammunition, propellant or explosive materials.
- Direct close-range attack can expose responders to heat, fragments and sudden pressure effects.
Chemical Identity & Physical Properties
Solid material, typically rubbery or hard composition ranging from gray to black in color. Often formulated as composite mixtures of oxidizers (ammonium perchlorate) and fuel binders (HTPB, PBAN). No distinct odor unless burning.
| Also known as | Solid rocket propellantComposite propellantSolid fuel rocket motorSolid propellant grain |
| Appearance | Solid material, typically rubbery or hard composition ranging from gray to black in color. Often formulated as composite mixtures of oxidizers (ammonium perchlorate) and fuel binders (HTPB, PBAN). No distinct odor unless burning. |
| Flash Point | Not applicable (solid energetic material) |
| Boiling Point | Not applicable (decomposes/deflagrates) |
| Vapor Density | Not applicable (solid) |
| Water Reactivity | No significant reaction with water; components may be water-reactive depending on formulation |
Fireground Response Guidance — UN 0499
Extinguishing Media
PPE Requirements
Responders should use structural firefighting gear with SCBA for smoke or fire exposure and maintain standoff distance from burning articles or packages. PPE does not replace evacuation if additional explosives or large quantities are involved.
Isolation & Evacuation
First Actions for a UN 0499 Incident
- CALL 911. Then call the emergency response telephone number on the shipping paper, if available.
- Keep unauthorized personnel away and deny entry.
- Stage upwind and avoid smoke from burning pyrotechnic, propellant or explosive material.
- Eliminate ignition sources if it is safe to do so.
- Isolate the area and check for nearby explosives, ammunition, propellants or pyrotechnic articles.
- Protect exposures only from a safe distance if directed by incident command.
- Use ERG Guide 112, shipping papers and incident command to set isolation and evacuation distances.
📋 Copy & Share Field Card
UN 0499 — Propellant, solidUse for: Quick radio or face-to-face size-up. Short, structured, field-ready.
Use for: Incident command briefing, staging area whiteboard, or pre-entry team brief.
Use for: Quick text to command or incoming units. Fits in a single SMS.